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Biomass Energy 101 |
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Biomass is plant material or animal waste. Examples include trees, corn, grass, and manure. The gases collected from the decomposition of these materials may also be used, such as landfill gas. Learn more: National Renewable Energy Laboratory - Biomass Energy Basics |
Applications
Biomass contains energy that can be used in a variety of different ways. Simply burning biomass can produce heat. It can be converted to transportation fuels. Ethanol is an example. Electricity can be produced from biomass when it is burned or gases are collected from it. Many items once created with petroleum, such as plastics, can now be produced with biomass. Research is continuing to find new ways to use biomass. Learn more: U.S. Department of Energy - Resources for Students
Environmental
Whether burned or converted to gas, biomass does generate air pollution. Emissions vary by fuel and technology. These emissions can include NOx, CO, CO2, and particulates. Biomass power can have environmental benefits when it diverts waste from landfills or when gas from landfills is used. This gas, called methane, would otherwise be released into the environment. The collection and processing of biomass may contribute to environmental problems if it contains toxic contaminants or results in greater chemical use. If a source such as switchgrass is used, it can help the environment by reducing erosion and nitrogen runoff. The use of feces as a source of energy provides needed power and a way to safely dispose of the material.
Learn more: U.S. Department of Energy - Environmental Benefits
Economic
Production of biomass is beneficial to farmers for a number of reasons. The product can be produced locally, keeping jobs and wealth in the area and reducing the need for foreign imports of oil. Diversifying crops allows for less concern if there are price fluctuations in other crops. Construction of the plants needed to convert crops or landfill gas creates jobs. One concern with biomass is that switching from food crops to fuel crops might drive-up food prices.
Learn more: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Economics of Biofuels 
| Biofuels Businesses-Interested in powering your car with biodiesel? Check out our business directory.
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History
The burning of wood, a biomass, was probably the first use of energy by humans. Henry Ford originally designed his Model-T to be capable of operating with ethanol.1 Rudolf Diesel intended to use peanut oil to power his diesel engine.2 1 Clean Energy Alternatives: Ethanol. Environmental Protection Agency. [pdf]
2 Historical perspectives on vegetable oil-based diesel fuels. The National Biodiesel Board. [pdf] |
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Case Studies and Examples A Burning Desire for Manure in WI Videos
Learn How Coskata Makes Ethanol from Numerous Feedstocks in its New Flex Facility Video REC Interview: Heating with Biodiesel
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